Spurs Legend Compares Wembanyama to LeBron

There are very few NBA players who can be compared to LeBron James without causing a big argument. But one name that might come close is Victor Wembanyama, the 2024 NBA Rookie of the Year.

Tony Parker thinks so too. In a chat with Yahoo Sports, he mentioned how Wembanyama reminds him of James because of all the hype and expectations surrounding him. Parker praised the 7-foot-4 player for handling everything like a pro.

“There’s nothing I can tell him, he’s ready … He’s not bothered by the pressure or the expectations. He’s a little bit like LeBron (James),” Parker said of Wembanyama.”

“The only one that can compare with so much expectation before you arrive is LeBron James. And Victor, the way he played his rookie season with the Spurs, he was unbelievable. So I hope it translates with a lot of championships for the Spurs, and I hope it will translate with a lot of medals for French basketball.”

High Expectations:

Parker’s point makes sense. The buzz around Wembanyama before he even set foot on an NBA court was huge—something we haven’t seen since James entered as the No. 1 pick in 2003. And just like James, Wembanyama didn’t disappoint from day one.

The young star not only snagged Rookie of the Year but also almost clinched Defensive Player of the Year honors . Rudy Gobert edged him out, but Wembanyama still put up amazing stats: 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and an impressive 3.6 blocks per game as a rookie.

Fans might think this comparison is exciting yet daunting for such a young player.

Wembanyama’s potential seems limitless! While Parker compared his entry into the league to James’, it’s possible we’ll see more comparisons as his career progresses.

What do you think? Is Wembanyama really on track to be like LeBron?